Important: The Kraken is not an attorney, and the information in this post does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. The content of this post is for general informational purposes only, and it may not include the most up-to-date legal or other information. Kraken Kratom hopes that you verify information through your own research and that you consult federal, state, and local laws and regulations for more information about Kratom’s legal status.
The worldwide laws revolving around the Southeast Asian tree are ever-changing. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) have attempted to combat its usage in the United States by pushing a Kratom ban, while scientists and other advocates are fighting to keep it legal.
See the map below for a breakdown of where Kratom is legal and illegal in the United States.
To help our customers stay on top of the current legal status of Kratom in their local area, we created this helpful guide. Check back frequently as we will continue to update this map as laws change.
Is Kratom Legal In My State?
In the U.S., there are currently six states in which Kratom is labeled as a controlled substance and is therefore illegal to sell, possess, use and grow. There are also a few cities and counties in legal states in which Kratom use and possession is banned.
States Where Kratom Is Banned
- • Alabama
- • Arkansas
- • Indiana
- • Rhode Island
- • Wisconsin
(Kratom is illegal in all areas of use, possession, and purchase in these states. We are actively working with the AKA and other advocacy organizations to change this.)
Local Jurisdictions With Bans
- • Illinois
Kratom is legal for use, with exception of Jerseyville, to people over the age of 18. - • New Hampshire
Kratom is legal to use for anyone over the age of 18. - • California
Kratom is legal for use but banned in the city of San Diego. - • Florida
Kratom is legal for use but banned in Sarasota County. - • Mississippi
Kratom is legal for use but banned in Union County. - • Colorado
Kratom is legal in Colorado, with an exception in Denver where it is “illegal for human consumption.” - • Tennessee
Kratom was banned, but it was lifted in 2017 and is now legal to use for those over 21 years old.
(Kratom is prohibited in the above local jurisdictions, but remains legal at the state level.)
States Where Kratom Is Protected By the KCPA
- • Arizona
- • Colorado
- • Georgia
- • Florida
- • Nevada
- • Oklahoma
- • Oregon
- • Utah
- • Virginia
- • West Virginia
(The Kratom Consumer Protection Act (KCPA) is legislation to regulate the production, sale, and labeling of Kratom products to ensure that consumers receive only pure, high-quality products.)
Is Kratom Legal In My Country?
In the States, we should be preparing to advocate for Kratom in 2019 and beyond. With a new Congress and the start of most state legislative sessions, we might see some laws changing in your area that affect your favorite herbal friend.
The legal landscape surrounding Kratom is complex and varies significantly from one country to the next. This article aims to shed light on the topic, leveraging meticulous research and insights from various reliable sources, including online resources and international contacts.
Africa
- • General Overview: The legality of Kratom in many African nations is not straightforward. Many regions either don’t recognize Kratom or have ambiguous regulations surrounding its use.
- • South Africa: While Kratom remains legal, its status isn’t widely acknowledged. The laws governing Kratom in South Africa are akin to those in the U.S., prohibiting any medical claims about the botanical.
Asia
- • General Ban: Countries such as Israel, Japan, Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, and Vietnam have explicitly prohibited Kratom.
- • China: The legal status of Kratom remains uncertain, except in Hong Kong, where it is recognized as legal.
- • Thailand: Growing Kratom was illegal since 1943, but recent changes in regulations might see this ban lifted. As of December 25, 2018, potential medicinal uses of Kratom are being considered after the amendment of the Narcotics Act of 1979.
Australia & New Zealand
- • Australia: Kratom is banned in all its forms.
- • New Zealand: Classified as a Schedule 1 substance, Kratom’s import and export are illegal. Nevertheless, local prescriptions are permissible.
Europe
- • Explicit Ban: Kratom is prohibited in Denmark, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Russia, and Sweden.
- • Ambiguous Regions: For nations such as Ireland, Italy, and the United Kingdom, it is advised to check local legislation for specific details.
North America
- • Canada: Kratom laws resemble those of Denver, Colorado, where it is “illegal for human consumption.” Consequently, it’s primarily marketed as incense.
- • North and Central Latin American Countries: Presently, Kratom remains unrestricted in these regions.
South America
- General Overview: Most South American nations have no prohibitive laws against Kratom, although its availability varies. Brazil seems to be an exception where Kratom can be more easily found.
Closing Thoughts
Kratom’s legality is a continually evolving topic. Especially in the U.S., where legislation may see shifts in the upcoming years. As always, potential users and businesses are encouraged to remain informed and be aware of the legal status of Kratom in their respective regions.
If you’re looking for a good place to buy Kratom online, check us out. All of our Kratom products are laboratory tested for quality and backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.